Planning your first trip and wondering about the best Tampa things to see? Get ready for sunny beaches, thrilling adventures, and unforgettable family experiences! Explore iconic landmarks, breathtaking nature, and an incredible food scene. Tampa is a city where excitement meets relaxation, offering everything from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to serene sunsets over the Gulf. Make your getaway unforgettable with Casiola. Book your stay today and enjoy stylish, spacious accommodations in the heart of the action. With spacious, stylish accommodations in prime locations, you’ll have the perfect home base for all your adventures.
10 best Tampa things to see
The top things to see in Tampa range from thrilling theme parks to hidden beach gems. Check out these spots to make your first Tampa vacation magical.
1. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
If you love roller coasters, exotic animals, and world-class entertainment, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a must. This African-themed park has high-speed coasters, up-close animal encounters, and spectacular shows that the whole family will love. Get your heart racing on Iron Gwazi, relax on the Serengeti Express, or see majestic giraffes on the Serengeti Safari.
Grab your Busch Gardens tickets here.
2. Clearwater Beach & St. Pete’s Beach
There’s no shortage of Tampa things to see for beach lovers. Explore some of the best coastal views in Florida. Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach are located along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and endless family fun await. Tampa beaches are perfect for dolphin-spotting tours and kid-friendly water activities. Build sandcastles, rent jet skis, or take a pirate cruise for an adventure the little ones won’t forget.
Tip* Don’t miss the incredible sunset and street performances at the iconic Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach.
3. The Florida Aquarium
Dive into an underwater world! Among the many Tampa things to see, this is an exciting, interactive experience for visitors of all ages. Get up close with sea turtles, playful otters, and mesmerizing jellyfish at The Florida Aquarium. Located in downtown Tampa, this world-class attraction lets visitors walk through a coral reef tunnel, experience a dolphin cruise, and even touch stingrays! It’s the perfect mix of education and entertainment, making it a great family stop.
4. Ybor City historic district
Tampa things to see aren’t just about beaches— take a stroll through Ybor City for a taste of Cuban culture and history.
Step into the heart of Tampa’s Cuban heritage in the Ybor City district. This area is famous for cigar-making traditions, Cuban sandwiches, and colorful nightlife. Tampa is best known for its Cuban sandwich—a delicious mix of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles on Cuban bread.
During the day, explore brick-paved streets, visit cigar factories, and grab a café con leche at an authentic Cuban café. At night, the district transforms into a lively spot with music, dancing, and energy you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
5. Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk is the heartbeat of downtown Tampa, offering a picturesque waterfront pathway packed with green spaces, interactive attractions, and dining options. You can walk, bike, or ride on a water taxi through the riverwalk.
You’ll find plenty of kid-friendly stops along the way to entertain the little ones. Glazer Children’s Museum is a hands-on wonderland where young minds can explore interactive exhibits, a pretend firehouse, and a kid-sized Publix grocery store. For art lovers, the Tampa Museum of Art offers a mix of modern exhibits and ancient artifacts, all within a sleek, riverfront building.
6. ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Looking for Tampa things to see that are both fun and educational? ZooTampa at Lowry Park is one of the top-rated zoos in the country. What makes ZooTampa unique is its up-close animal encounters. Families can feed a majestic Indian rhino, get nose-to-nose with adorable meerkats, or even touch a giant tortoise. For those looking for an even deeper experience, the behind-the-scenes tours let guests explore off-limit areas and learn about the zoo’s groundbreaking wildlife rescue and rehabilitation programs.
Want even more adventure? The Expedition Africa Safari Ride takes guests through the African savanna, offering a firsthand look at zebras, elephants, and antelope. The Primate World and Asian Gardens introduce visitors to playful orangutans, endangered tigers, and curious gibbons swinging through the trees.
7. Sunshine Skyway Bridge
Driving over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge feels like soaring over the ocean. This iconic landmark connects Tampa Bay to St. Petersburg and offers unmatched panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.
As you cross the bridge, watch for sailboats, cruise ships, and even dolphins gliding through the shimmering waters below. For an even more picturesque experience, plan your drive around sunrise or sunset—when the golden light reflects off the water, creating a magical, postcard-worthy scene.
8. Armature Works
If you’re a food lover craving bold flavors and a vibrant atmosphere, Armature Works is the place to be. Located in the historic Tampa Heights district, this trendy food hall is a must-visit for anyone looking to taste their way through the city’s best local cuisine—all while enjoying stunning views of the Hillsborough River.
Armature Works isn’t just for foodies—it’s also a great spot for families with kids. With a wide variety of kid-friendly options, even the pickiest eaters will find something they love. Some top spots for families dining with little ones at Armature Works include Ava for classic wood-fired pizza, Butcher N Barbecue for juicy burgers and mac & cheese, and Empamamas for crispy chicken tenders and cheesy empanadas. For a sweet treat, Bake’n Babes serves up giant cookies and over-the-top milkshakes that kids will love!
9. Fort De Soto Park
If your idea of the best Tampa things to see includes a secluded beach escape, head to Fort De Soto Park. The park is a nature lover’s paradise with pristine beaches, lush mangroves, and endless outdoor adventures. This hidden gem is perfect for unwinding, exploring, and connecting with Florida’s natural beauty.
Enjoy stunning, soft-sand beaches with calm, shallow waters, ideal for families with kids. North Beach is a favorite, often ranked among the best beaches in the country. Beyond the beach, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the winding mangrove tunnels. You might spot manatees, sea turtles, and playful dolphins swimming nearby. The park has seven miles of scenic biking and hiking trails for those who prefer to stay on land.
10. Glazer Children’s Museum
The Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa Bay is a wonderland of interactive learning and play for kids of all ages. Designed to spark curiosity and creativity, this hands-on museum features immersive exhibits that let children explore everything from science and engineering to arts and culture. Whether they’re role-playing in a kid-sized city, experimenting with waterworks, or diving into STEM activities, every visit is a chance for adventure and discovery. Conveniently located in downtown Tampa, it’s the perfect family-friendly destination to inspire young minds while making unforgettable memories.
Book your dream Tampa vacation today!
Get ready for a vacation filled with unforgettable Tampa things to see, from the historic streets of Ybor City to the white sands of St. Pete Beach. Turn your trip into a dream vacation with Casiola! Our luxury vacation rentals offer top-tier comfort, prime locations, and stress-free booking so you can focus on making memories.
Book your stay with Casiola today and experience Tampa like never before!
FAQ
The best time to visit Tampa is from October to April, when the weather is warm but not too hot. Summer months (June–September) can be very humid with frequent afternoon rain showers, but they’re great for hitting the beach or cooling off at one of Tampa’s water parks.
If you’re looking for Tampa things to see without spending a dime, check out the Riverwalk, Fort De Soto Park, and Ybor City.
Tampa is about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Walt Disney World®, making it an easy day trip for families who want to experience both the beach and the theme parks in one vacation.
If you want to be close to the action, downtown Tampa or the Tampa Riverwalk area is ideal. For a beach getaway, stay in Clearwater Beach or St. Pete Beach.
Absolutely! Tampa is one of Florida’s best cities for family vacations. With Busch Gardens, ZooTampa, The Florida Aquarium, and amazing beaches, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly fun. Plus, the laid-back vibe and easy-to-navigate layout make it stress-free for parents.
